Description

• Russelia sarmentosa is a flowering perennial subshrub in the plantain family (Plantaginaceae), formerly placed in the figwort family (Scrophulariaceae).

• It has slender, arching or trailing stems that may sprawl over the ground or grow through surrounding vegetation.

• The leaves are small, simple, and opposite or arranged in whorls, with elliptic to lance-shaped blades and smooth margins.

• The tubular flowers are typically red to reddish-orange and grow singly or in small clusters along the stems.

• The flowers attract hummingbirds and other nectar-feeding pollinators, while the fruits are small capsules containing numerous seeds.

Range

• Native to tropical America, with records from Mexico and parts of Central America and the Caribbean.

• It is reported in the region of Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, Mexico.

Habitat

• Grows in tropical scrub, seasonally dry woodland, forest margins, and disturbed vegetation.

• Often occurs in sunny or partially shaded locations with well-drained soils.

• Its arching, spreading stems allow it to grow among shrubs and other low vegetation in warm environments.